Is your organization ready for simulation? The Simulation Culture Organizational Readiness Survey (SCORS)

Abstract

<p>Despite increased acceptance of simulation as a teaching strategy, widespread reports of organizations that have acquired simulator equipment only to have it remain in unopened boxes, stored in closets, or sit unused continue. There are many theories about why this happens but overall, a failure to ensure organizational readiness to make this commitment is often the root cause. The presenters adapted the Organizational Culture and Readiness for System-wide Integration of Evidence-based Practice Survey (Fineout-Overholt &amp; Melnyk, 2014) and included items from the TeamSTEPPS Readiness Assessment (AHRQ, 2015) to create a survey that examines readiness to integrate simulation-based education. The resulting tool, the Simulation Culture Organizational Readiness Survey (SCORS), was validated by an expert panel of simulation educators and researchers. The SCORS has four sections and a total of 28 items that are answered using a 5-point Likert scale. Scoring guidelines provide a method to help interpret overall score and item scores. A guidebook was developed for users and provides information to help the participant best respond to each item. This presentation is designed to briefly share the development process for the tool, but more importantly, to help the audience understand why it is vital to address organizational readiness prior to instituting a major curricular change such as integrating simulation, as well as the necessity of addressing logistical challenges before the change is implemented. With thoughtful consideration of organizational culture, readiness for change, and ability to support change, organizations may be more successful when integrating simulation-based learning into their programs.</p>